NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
112 reportsClear category filter29,000 miles · Mar 14, 2019
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OVER A DIP IN THE ROAD, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY (DEATH WOBBLE) AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNCONTROLLABLE. ONCE THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED, IT OPERATED NORMALLY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PRESCOTT BROTHERS FORD L…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OVER A DIP IN THE ROAD, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY (DEATH WOBBLE) AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNCONTROLLABLE. ONCE THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED, IT OPERATED NORMALLY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PRESCOTT BROTHERS FORD LINCOLN OF PRINCETON (1502 W PERU ST, PRINCETON, IL, (815) 875-1180) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIE ROD WAS WORN OUT AND THE STEERING DAMPER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO THE LOCAL DEALER. THE CONTACT REQUESTED THAT THE MANUFACTURER BUY BACK THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT RESEARCHED THE FAILURE ONLINE AND FOUND THAT THE FAILURE WAS COMMON IN SEVERAL VEHICLES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA ODI #11186744
140,000 miles · Mar 1, 2019
SteeringSuspensionUnknown Or Other
TRAVELING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS THE TRUCK FRONT VIBRATE VIOLENTLY. I HAVE TO PULL OFF THE ROAD AND STOP TO GET THE VIBRATION TO STOP. THE TIRES HAVE BEEN BALANCED AND REBALANCED. THE VEHICLE IS STILL IN THE STOCK CONFIGURATION. I HAVE APPROXIMATELY 140K MILES NOW.
NHTSA ODI #11183371
199,000 miles · Nov 19, 2018
Steering
OUR SUPER DUTY IS ONE OF THE ONES AFFECTED BY THE DEATH WOBBLE.HOW ANYONE CAN SAY IT'S NOT A SAFETY ISSUE IS BEYOND ME.DRIVE 40 MPH AND HAVE IT SHAKE SO BAD IT CROSSES THE CENTER LINE OR DRIVE ANY SPEED FROM 40 TO 75 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY AND GO OVER A BUMP OR CHANGE IN PAVEMENT AND HAVE IT SHAKE SO BAD YOU NEED TO HIT THE BRAKES T…
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OUR SUPER DUTY IS ONE OF THE ONES AFFECTED BY THE DEATH WOBBLE.HOW ANYONE CAN SAY IT'S NOT A SAFETY ISSUE IS BEYOND ME.DRIVE 40 MPH AND HAVE IT SHAKE SO BAD IT CROSSES THE CENTER LINE OR DRIVE ANY SPEED FROM 40 TO 75 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY AND GO OVER A BUMP OR CHANGE IN PAVEMENT AND HAVE IT SHAKE SO BAD YOU NEED TO HIT THE BRAKES TO SLOW IT WHILE TRAFFIC IS GOING AT 70.VERY DANGEROUS.FORD HAS THE SIMPLE SOLUTION BUT WON'T LET IT OUT.CAMBERS ARE FACTORY SET AT 4.2 WHICH CAUSES THE PROBLEM.CHANGING TO3.5 FIXES IT.FORD COULD HAVE RECALLED THEM BACK IN 2007 AND STOPPED FACTORY SETTINGS OF 4.2.WE SPENT OVER $1500 ON FRONT END REPAIRS,PLLUS SHOCKS AND TIRES WHICH WAS MONEY THROWN OUT. WE WERE TOLD TO PUT NEW ROTORS AND CALIPERS TO CORRECT IT.NO WAY. TOMORROW IT GOES IN TO HAVE THE CAMBERS RESET. OH OVER $700 ALSO TO REPLACE ALL BUSHINGS BEFORE A FORD COMPANY MECHANIC TOLD US ABOUT THE CAMBERS.THE WOBBLE MAY BE THE REASON SO MANY VEHICLES CROSS INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC.THAT WOBBLE IS BONE JARRING AND MY WIFE HAS 20 FLOATING SPURS IN HER NECK SO IT'S PAINFUL FOR HER.BOUGHT THE TRUCK IN 2016 AND THE PROBLEM IS STILL THERE.
NHTSA ODI #11152553
70,000 miles · Sep 26, 2018
SteeringSuspension
WHEN YOU HIT A BUMP OR POT HOLE IN THE ROAD THE FRONT WHEEL START BOUNCING LIKE A BASKET BALL. IT IS A VIOLENT REACTION. IT ONLY STOP BOUNCING IF YOU SLOW DOWN. THIS WILL HAPPEN AT SPEEDS FROM 45 TO 75 MPH. ALSO WHEN HITTING BUMPS IN THE ROAD, YOU LOOSE STEERING CONTROL FOR A FRACTION OF A SECOND. THIS HAS CAUSED MY TRUCK TO TEM…
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WHEN YOU HIT A BUMP OR POT HOLE IN THE ROAD THE FRONT WHEEL START BOUNCING LIKE A BASKET BALL. IT IS A VIOLENT REACTION. IT ONLY STOP BOUNCING IF YOU SLOW DOWN. THIS WILL HAPPEN AT SPEEDS FROM 45 TO 75 MPH. ALSO WHEN HITTING BUMPS IN THE ROAD, YOU LOOSE STEERING CONTROL FOR A FRACTION OF A SECOND. THIS HAS CAUSED MY TRUCK TO TEMPORARILY LOOSE CONTROL. THIS HAPPENS ON EVERY BUMP. NOT GOOD.
NHTSA ODI #11131654
130,000 miles · Aug 17, 2018
Steering
AS REPORTED FROM PREVIOUS OWNERS, DEATH WOBBLE HAS HAPPENED A NUMBER OF TIMES. I GET WOBBLE AT DIFFERENT TIMES IN DRIVING. I HAD DRIVEN 240 MILES ON THE HIGHWAY WITH NO PROBLEMS. AS I APPROACHED A TRAFFIC LIGHT TO MAKE A LEFT TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED TO WOBBLE AND FELT LIKE IT WANTED TO LOCK UP. I PULLED OVER TO CHEC…
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AS REPORTED FROM PREVIOUS OWNERS, DEATH WOBBLE HAS HAPPENED A NUMBER OF TIMES. I GET WOBBLE AT DIFFERENT TIMES IN DRIVING. I HAD DRIVEN 240 MILES ON THE HIGHWAY WITH NO PROBLEMS. AS I APPROACHED A TRAFFIC LIGHT TO MAKE A LEFT TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED TO WOBBLE AND FELT LIKE IT WANTED TO LOCK UP. I PULLED OVER TO CHECK FRONT WHEELS WITH NOT NOTICING ANYTHING WRONG STARTED DRIVING AND WOBBLE WAS GONE. THE STEERING WHEEL HAS STARTED DOING MORE OF THE "DEATH WOBBLE" AT ANY SPEED. I SPOKE WITH THE FORD DEALER AND THEY DIDN'T HAVE AN ANSWER. WHEN YOU SPEND $65,000.00 AND THIS HAPPENS THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE SENDING OUT RECALL NOTICES. THE MANUFACTURE KNOWS ABOUT THIS AND CHANGED IT ON NEWER VEHICLES SO THEY MUST KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. LET'S HOPE NO ONE GETS KILLED OR SERIOUS INJURED FROM THE DEATH WOBBLE. IS FORD READY TO FIGHT THIS IN COURT ON A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT? MY VEHICLE HAS 149,000 MILES ON IT AND STARTED AROUND 130,000 MILES.
NHTSA ODI #11120681
76,000 miles · Jan 31, 2018
Steering
DRIVING AT 55 MPH, HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD AND FRONT END AND STEERING SHOOK VIOLENTLY. UNABLE TO CONTROL STEERING, MADE VIOLENT MANEUVER INTO MEDIAN.
NHTSA ODI #11066085
128,000 miles · Jan 17, 2018
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT DROVE IN THE MIDDLE TWO LANES TO AVOID A COLLISION WITH A VEHICLE THAT HAD PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND OPENED THE DRIVER'S DOOR. WHILE PASSING THE OTHER VEHICLE, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT DROVE IN THE MIDDLE TWO LANES TO AVOID A COLLISION WITH A VEHICLE THAT HAD PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND OPENED THE DRIVER'S DOOR. WHILE PASSING THE OTHER VEHICLE, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. ALSO, THE BRAKE PEDAL FAILED TO OPERATE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ONCE THE SPEED SLOWED DOWN TO 35 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DESOTO AUTOMALL (3039 SE 70, ARCADIA, FL 34266) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CALLED THE "FORD DEATH WOBBLE". THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO CONTACTED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA ODI #11063319
48,000 miles · Aug 29, 2017
SteeringSuspensionWheels
WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH OVER HIGHWAY STEERING AND FRONT WHEELS STARTING SHAKING SO VIOLENTLY THE TRUCK WAS OUT OF CONTROL AND NEARLY CAUSED MAJOR ACCIDENT, THIS HAS HAPPENED TO US ON THREE OCCASIONS. I FEEL THIS PROBLEM IS VERY DANGEROUS AND IS A FLAW IN THE DESIGN OF STEERING, SUSPENSION OF FRONT WHEELS OF TRUCK, I AM AFRAID TO DR…
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WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH OVER HIGHWAY STEERING AND FRONT WHEELS STARTING SHAKING SO VIOLENTLY THE TRUCK WAS OUT OF CONTROL AND NEARLY CAUSED MAJOR ACCIDENT, THIS HAS HAPPENED TO US ON THREE OCCASIONS. I FEEL THIS PROBLEM IS VERY DANGEROUS AND IS A FLAW IN THE DESIGN OF STEERING, SUSPENSION OF FRONT WHEELS OF TRUCK, I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS $67000.00 VEHICLE WITH 48000 MILES. I HAVE TAKEN THIS TRUCK IN AND REPAIR SHOP SAYS THERE IS NO PROBLEM, I HAVE IT IN SHOP AGAIN WAITING FOR ANOTHER OPINION! I FEEL THIS VEHICLE TYPE BE RECALLED, I HOPE NOBODY DIES FROM THIS FLAW IN MY VEHICLE AND IT IS WHY I WANTED TO REPORT THIS VERY DANGEROUS VEHICLE 2012 FORD F-250 KING RANCH DEATH WOBBLE DRIVING CONDITIONS ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS WERE ON HIGHWAY CONDITIONS DRIVING OVER SMALL PAVEMENT BUMPS AT SPEEDS RANGING FROM 60 TO 70 MPH STRAIGHT ROADS AND ALSO TURNING ON CURVES, THE TRUCK SHAKES SO VIOLENTLY THAT YOU LOOSE CONTROL TRUCK SHAKING CONTINUES UNTIL THE TRUCK ALMOST COMES TO A STOP WHILE YOU ARE BRAKING TO SLOW DOWN. THIS HAPPENS SO FAST AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING IN STEERING OR ROAD FEEL , THIS OCCURS WITH SUCH SURPRISE AND SO VIOLENTLY OUT OF NOWHERE
NHTSA ODI #11020396
108,657 miles · Jun 11, 2017
SteeringSuspensionWheels
LAST YEAR I DO BELIEVE IT WAS SIX TWO OF 2016 THAT I LEFT MY 2012 FORD F-250 IN COLORADO BECAUSE IT WAS MALFUNCTION WAS DEATH WOBBLE I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO LEAVE IT WITH THE PERSON THAT I THOUGHT I COULD TRUST BY THE NAME OF [XXX] MY NAME IS [XXX] [XXX] HAD THE TRUCK STOLEN FROM HIM HE DIDN'T BOTHER TO MAKE A POLICE REPORT AND…
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LAST YEAR I DO BELIEVE IT WAS SIX TWO OF 2016 THAT I LEFT MY 2012 FORD F-250 IN COLORADO BECAUSE IT WAS MALFUNCTION WAS DEATH WOBBLE I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO LEAVE IT WITH THE PERSON THAT I THOUGHT I COULD TRUST BY THE NAME OF [XXX] MY NAME IS [XXX] [XXX] HAD THE TRUCK STOLEN FROM HIM HE DIDN'T BOTHER TO MAKE A POLICE REPORT AND I HAD TO GO TO REHAB BECAUSE I WAS ON THE RUN FROM PROBATION I DIDN'T FIND OUT THAT THE TRUCK WAS STOLEN UNTIL FEBRUARY 15TH 2017 THE TRUCK WAS STOLEN LAST YEAR IN SEPTEMBER I DON'T KNOW WHEN I JUST NOTICED SEPTEMBER OF 2016 SO I NEED ANY KIND OF REPORT OF TO WEAR THAT TRUCK HAS LAST BEEN PULLED OVER IF IT'S BEEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT SOMETHING THAT I CAN MAYBE FIND WHERE IT'S AT BECAUSE I CANCELLED OUT PAYMENTS ON IT AND DECEMBER BECAUSE I WAS GOING TO I KNOW IT'S A HARD STORY TO BELIEVE LET THE BANK REPO IT NOW THE BANK CAN'T FIND IT I'VE MADE A POLICE REPORT IN COLORADO AND I CAN'T GET ACCESS TO THE POLICE REPORT I KNOW IT'S A HARD STORY TO BELIEVE BUT IT'S THE GOD'S HONEST TRUTH I DO HAVE PICTURES OF THE TRUCK THE LICENSE PLATE NUMBER IS [XXX] SO I WILL BE MORE THAN WILLING TO GIVE ALL THE INFO I CAN BUT I'M NOT SURE IF WE CAN LOCATE IT BUT THANKS FOR YOUR TIME MY PHONE NUMBER IS [XXX] PLEASE CALL ME SO I CAN FIND OUT WHAT I CAN DO TO FIX THIS ISSUE RIGHT AWAY. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
NHTSA ODI #10994339
69,000 miles · Feb 1, 2017
SteeringSuspension
DEATH WOBBLE AFTER CROSSING EXPANSION JOINTS, POTHOLES, ASPHALT LEVEL CHANGE. SO SEVERE THAT YOU MUST INSTANTLY BRAKE HARD AND TRY TO GET OFF HIGHWAY. HAPPENS AT 75 MPH. SHAKES SO SEVERE THAT ITEMS ON BACK SEAT ARE THROWN OFF. HAPPENED AT
NHTSA ODI #10948823
NHTSA investigations
1RQ14005 · Vehicle Commanded Engine Shutdown
Opened Jan 13, 2015 · Closed Mar 15, 2016
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System:software; Engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel; Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System; Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Additional source detail variants (5)
Electrical System:software
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.